Dear Friends and Neighbors, 

We’re approaching the final stretch of the legislative session, and I wanted to take a moment to share an important update on one of the biggest concerns I’ve heard lately: the state shifting costs onto local taxpayers. 

Cost Shifts Hurt Counties and Taxpayers 

Last week, the House passed its Human Services budget bill. While I appreciate some parts of the legislation, I ultimately could not support it. The bill pushes significant financial burdens onto our counties that used to be covered by the state. 

That may look like savings on paper in St. Paul, but it’s a real cost shift in practice. Local officials across Winona County have reached out with concerns. When the state offloads its responsibilities, counties are left with two choices to pay for the new costs: raise property taxes or cut vital services. Neither is acceptable. 

We already know that Minnesota families are struggling with rising costs of things like groceries, gas, and housing. After one-party control spent the entire record-breaking $18 billion surplus and enacted an enormous $10 billion tax increase last session, Minnesotans should not be asked to pay more through backdoor increases at the county level. Shifting these mandated program costs to local governments is not a solution; it’s a shell game. 

I will continue to stand firm against shifting costs to our counties and advocate for responsible budget plans that protect Minnesota Families’ budgets, protect essential services, and reduce the deficit. Even though I did not vote for the bill, it did pass the House. Fortunately, there is still time to make important revisions to avoid passing costs down to county taxpayers during the conference committee process. 

Fishing Opener & Mother’s Day Wishes 

Last weekend marked two special occasions in Minnesota: our statewide fishing opener and Mother’s Day. 

To all the anglers, I hope you enjoyed the time outdoors and made some lasting memories with family and friends. Also, hopefully you caught some fish!  And to all the moms, grandmas, and mother figures in our lives, thank you for your love, strength, and everything you do. Happy Mother's Day!